Duke of Edinburgh’s Awards a lasting legacy to HRH Prince Philip – Deputy Mayor

Councillor Andrew Wilson, Deputy Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, has reflected on the lasting legacy of His Royal Highness, Prince Philip, through the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Scheme, and believes it would be a fitting tribute to his memory to encourage more young people across the Borough to get involved.

Councillor Wilson joined the Mayor and other Elected Members to share condolences on the passing of Prince Philip during a Special Meeting of Mid and East Antrim Borough Council earlier this week.

The Deputy Mayor, who himself took part in the Duke of Edinburgh’s Awards Scheme, shared his own memories of the experience.

“I took part in the bronze and silver programmes while at Carrickfergus Grammar School from 2004-2006.

“More recently, I have helped with the expeditions for my Boys’ Brigade Company, 1st Carrickfergus.

“As a participant, my memories are that the award scheme promoted confidence, skills, friendship, resilience, personal development and character building, helping others through community volunteering, gaining skills and creating long lasting friendships and bonds through the expeditions (for me they were always in The Mournes, with overnight stays at Meelmore Lodge) which also promoted fitness.

“In many ways, the scheme mirrors Prince Philip’s own youth at Gordonstoun in Scotland, and it would be a good legacy to his memory if our young people signed up in large numbers to take part once lockdown eases.

“The award scheme is a good link with our youth and the countryside. The walks and expeditions create the same bonds and camaraderie but my location changed from The Mournes to The Antrim Hills, a local area which is breathtakingly spectacular and gives everyone pause to reflect and take in the local nature.”

Councillor Wilson added:

“I offer my condolences and sympathy on the death of His Royal Highness, Prince Philip, to the Royal Family and especially to our Sovereign, Her Majesty The Queen.

“The United Kingdom, the Commonwealth and indeed the world, mourn the passing of the longest serving Royal consort, a supporting husband to Her Majesty for a remarkable 73 years.

“The Royal Family have rightly asked that Coronavirus regulations be followed leading up to the funeral tomorrow, and I would urge those wishing to leave a message of sympathy to sign the Council book of condolence at www.midandeastantrim.gov.uk/bookofcondolence”